6 Techniques for Getting an Uncooperative Toddler into The Car Seat - January 2025

It's a beautiful sunny day, and you're considering going out with your child. So, you gather your belongings and walk out the door. Everything is going swimmingly until you open the car door and want to put your child in the car seat. Suddenly, your child went ballistic, screaming and struggling to get on. You attempt to resolve the situation by promising everything just to get your child into that car seat. You said you'd buy them ice cream, candy, and a new toy, but none of them work. They keep stomping around in the car seat and continue their car seat tantrum. Such a distressing moment, which I'm sure every parent has experienced at least once. Yes, toddlers can be difficult, but there are ways to work with them rather than against them. Here are some tips to help you get your uncooperative toddler into that seat of theirs. 1. Give Your Child Something to Hold Onto Distraction usually works best with young kids. Allow your child to bring one or two of their favourite toys on the trip. Tell them that in order for the toys to come, your child must first sit in the car seat. Some children may be afraid of being strapped in and unable to move, so those toys will make them feel more secure. Just make sure that the toys are safe for your kid to play with. 2. Reason Out and Show Empathy Gently explain to your child that you understand why they don't want to sit in the car seat. However, inform them that it is for their own good and safety. You could probably show some videos about why kids should use car seats and what would happen if they don’t. Be sure not to scare them off that they might refuse to go on any trip at all. 3. Let Them Strap Themselves into The Car Seat You know how some kids want to be independent and do everything themselves? So let them be the big boy or big girl who can sit and strap themselves in. Allow them to do it without assistance. Though, inform them that you are ready to help if they become stuck or are unable to reach for the buckle. Your child is likely to remain in the car seat because they are doing it voluntarily. 4. Provide Options and Let Them Choose Did you know that, according to PennState Extension, giving children choices helps them feel like they have some control and power over what they do and is a step in growing up? In this situation, you can inquire with your child about whether they want to climb into the car seat themselves or need your assistance. Either way, your child will be seated properly before you can drive away. 5. "You Have to Get On The Car Seat For The Car to Move" It's not really lying because if your child isn't in the car seat, it's not safe to drive. A minor threat can sometimes be beneficial (not that we condone this behaviour). However, in this case, it provides a valid reason for your child to realise that they need to be in the seat dedicated for them. Especially when they want to go out with you as well. 6. Make Using A Car Seat A Routine And Stick to It Establishing routines is a good way to keep your family's affairs well-organized and planned, especially if there are young kids around. At the same time, raisingchildren.net.au stated that routines help children feel safe, develop life skills, and form healthy habits. The same can be said for the car seat routine. Make sure your child is strapped in whenever they ride in the car, no matter how short the trip. That way, they'll get used to it and be less likely to have a tantrum. Keep Your Cool at All Times Car seat tantrums are similar to other types of tantrums in that you must remain calm to avoid exacerbating the situation. If you start scolding and shouting at your children, they will go into fight mode and may continue to tantrum. Most of the time, it's best to calm down the child and reason with them. Or simply hug them until the commotion stops. When your child is calm, it will be easier to get them into the car seat. So, parents, be patient and good luck! For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!

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